Denon AVR-2801 5.1 Channels Receiver

Back in Dec. 2000, I decided to upgrade my 2 channel stereo system into a home-theater. I figured the receiver and speakers were the biggest factors in a HT setup, so I decided I didn't want to skimp in these areas. I started out searching the net for opinions and recommendations on various brands/lines of receivers. One name that always seemed to come up was Denon, so I determined that the AVR-2801 would fill my needs nicely, but I wasn't about to spend $500 or so on a receiver without listening to it. I called around town and found a local shop where I could demo this unit. It happened to be the largest audio shop in town, so I would be able to A/B the unit to many others. I compared the 2801 to the Onkyo TX-D575x (now the TX-D595x), the Marantz SR5000, various models from Pioneer, Sony, JVC, Yamaha, Harmon Kardon, etc.... The Denon blew them all away. The Onkyo 575 (595) was a close second, but didn't have the power of the Denon, and also seemed a bit bright to me (along with the Yamaha). The units from Sony, JVC, Pioneer aren't even in the same class as the Denon when it comes to sound quality (transparency), power, configurability, connectivity, and plain 'ol impact. They falsely inflate thier power ratings, burden the units down with 56,000 DSP modes, which are worthless/useless anyhow. I mean seriously, who the heck wants to listen to their SSCD high definition classical recordings with a "Video Game" DSP effect, or with a reverb??? DSP effects are useless to a true audiophile, and I applaud Denon for keeping them to a minimum.

Another thing I wanted to point out, is that there appears to be two model 2801s on the market, one that puts out 90W x 5, and one that puts out 95w x 5 channels. I believe the newer one puts out 95w now. If the unit you are looking at is rated at 90w/channel, it is probably an older unit (2000 or older).

The only flaw that I can think of is the fact that unless you have a monitor with a s-video input, you won't be able to access most of this units configuration menus. For some reason, Denon decided that the only way you can access the advanced functions, such as bass management, speaker/room locations/distances, etc... would be through the OSD, and not through the units front display. Good thing I replaced my TV along with the rest of my old setup.

The only thing the 2801 lacks, but can't be considered a flaw, is component switching capabilities, and perhaps a Digital output for CDR burning. My DVD player and my CD players both have digital outputs, so it isn't really a problem.

If you are looking for audiophile performance for around $500, then you can't go wrong with the Denon AVR-2801.

Keep in mind though that Denon has just released some new models, and have released a 2802, which in addition to the features of the 2801, has added Dolby Pro-Logic II, DTS-ES discrete 6.1, component switching, and adjustable LFE cross-over frequency.